Green humphead parrotfish
📖 Overview
Juveniles are found in lagoons while adults inhabit clear outer lagoon and seaward reefs up to depths of at least 30 m . They ‘sleep’ in caves and often in shipwrecks at night . They are usually in small groups feeding on benthic algae, live corals and shellfishes . They sometimes ram their head against corals to facilitate feeding . The largest and wariest of the parrotfishes. Assessments showed their vulnerability to overfishing . Minimum depth reported taken from Ref. 128797.
🔬 Taxonomy
🐟 Physical Description
Dorsal spines (total): 9; Dorsal soft rays (total): 10; Anal spines: 3; Anal soft rays: 9. This species is distinguished by the following characters: median predorsal scales 2-4 (may be obscured by hump); 3 scale rows on cheek, 1 (4-6), 2 (3-6), 3 (1-2); pectoral-fin rays 16 or 17; steep profile distinctive; nodules on teeth unique ; prominent bump on forehead of adult (evident at least 25 cm TL); deep body 2.0-2.5 in SL, with depth increasing with growth; Colour of juveniles brownish to green with 5 vertical rows of whitish spots on side, the primary phase is a dull gray with scattered white spots, gradually becoming uniformly dark green .: fusiform / normal; Cross section: compressed.
🌀 Behaviour
Behavioural data for Green humphead parrotfish is currently being reviewed.
🦐 Diet
Diet information for Green humphead parrotfish is currently being compiled.
🥚 Reproduction
Oviparous, distinct pairing during breeding . Also Ref. 103751.
🌍 Habitat & Distribution
Marine; reef-associated; depth range 0 - 40 m . Tropical; 34°N - 26°S, 32°E - 145°W East Africa to Samoa and the Line Islands, north to the Yaeyama and Wake islands, south to the Great Barrier Reef and New Caledonia.
🌿 Ecology
📐 Morphometrics
🌡️ Water Parameters & Tolerance
🛡️ Conservation Assessment
📊 Population Risk & Fisheries
🍽️ Edibility & Flavour
"Green humphead parrotfish is an edible species."
- Clear, bright eyes — cloudy eyes indicate age
- Firm flesh that springs back when pressed
- Fresh ocean smell, never strong or ammonia-like
- Bright red or pink gills, not grey or brown
- Shiny, moist skin with scales tightly attached
- Cloudy or sunken eyes
- Strong fishy or ammonia odour
- Soft, mushy flesh that doesn't spring back
- Discoloured or dry flesh
⚡ Nutrition
Per 100g cooked - Source: USDA FoodData Central
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Protein | 18.9 g |
| Omega-3 (total) | 88 mg |
🔬 Mercury Safety
Mercury data for Green humphead parrotfish has not yet been assigned. Please consult FDA/EPA guidance for general seafood safety advice.
🌿 Sustainability
🌐 Names & Taxonomy
Scientific Synonyms
| Scientific Name | Author | Year | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bolbomatopon muricatum | Valenciennes | 1840 | Synonym |
| Bolbometopon muricantum | Valenciennes | 1840 | Synonym |
| Bulbometopon muricatum | Valenciennes | 1840 | Synonym |
| Callyodon muricatus | Valenciennes | 1840 | Synonym |
| Callyodon shimoniensis | Smith | 1953 | Synonym |
| Scarus muricatus | Valenciennes | 1840 | Synonym |
🔍 Similar Species
🗺️ Global Occurrence Map
Occurrence records from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) - 1 records indexed .
👥 Community & Contribute
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